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izasballad's reviews
345 reviews
Expectation by Anna Hope
1.0
[Spoilers ahead]
I expected this book to be about positive female friendships, and finding meaning in life. Unfortunately, this was completely different from what I expected. I was bored from the beginning. I usually have no problems with alternating points of view and timelines, but the way this book was written was not my cup of tea. I felt the characters were half-baked, and that their friendship wasn't explored deeper. I know this wants to show the realistic and "not-so-good" parts of life, but what kind of person will sleep with their best friend's husband???? (I know it can happen in real life, but I don't understand the point of it in this book and its overall message)
I understand that this book is about motherhood, but I didn't like the direction it went to. The characters were limited to their motherhood status. The narrative focused too much on the dependence on having children as a source of meaning in life. (Why is the character with no child the one to always suffer and ultimately somewhat become the villain??) I found it quite disappointing as it seemed to disregard other paths. Not everyone finds fulfillment in having children, and that's okay!!
I expected this book to be about positive female friendships, and finding meaning in life. Unfortunately, this was completely different from what I expected. I was bored from the beginning. I usually have no problems with alternating points of view and timelines, but the way this book was written was not my cup of tea. I felt the characters were half-baked, and that their friendship wasn't explored deeper. I know this wants to show the realistic and "not-so-good" parts of life, but what kind of person will sleep with their best friend's husband???? (I know it can happen in real life, but I don't understand the point of it in this book and its overall message)
I understand that this book is about motherhood, but I didn't like the direction it went to. The characters were limited to their motherhood status. The narrative focused too much on the dependence on having children as a source of meaning in life. (Why is the character with no child the one to always suffer and ultimately somewhat become the villain??) I found it quite disappointing as it seemed to disregard other paths. Not everyone finds fulfillment in having children, and that's okay!!
Funny Story by Emily Henry
3.0
I'm not even surprised with my rating because I don't really gel well with Emily Henry books (except Happy Place!! I loved that book so much!!)
This was cute, but it felt dragging at some points. There were so many things happening, but nothing at the same time?? I was only invested in the latter half of the book. If you're a romcom girlie through and through, you would probably love this.
This was cute, but it felt dragging at some points. There were so many things happening, but nothing at the same time?? I was only invested in the latter half of the book. If you're a romcom girlie through and through, you would probably love this.
Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar
5.0
This was such a beautifully written book. This book explores different themes, such as sobriety, addiction, grief, and family, but essentially, this book delves into mortality— the meaning of life and death. It talks about one's desire to have a meaningful death— to be remembered/to be a martyr; the search for meaning in a world that often feels senseless. Kaveh Akbar creates such a nuanced portrayal of Cyrus. He showed the toll of profound loss in a person, and how they attempt to cope and understand the situation. In Cyrus' attempt to cope, he becomes obsessed with the idea of martyrdom, seeing it as an avenue to find purpose in his life. One of the book's strengths lies in its exploration of the interconnected lives surrounding Cyrus. By writing the perspectives of these characters' past and present lives, Akbar showcases how everyone's experiences intersect and shape one another. There are a lot of interpretations of the ending, and I could see how each of those can play in the story. I would love to share more of my thoughts, but most of them contain spoilers haha! The writing was so engaging, and the language used flowed beautifully. My only regret is not buying a physical copy of this book to annotate (as someone who rarely rereads books, it's such a pity!!) This is such a great book for discussions, and I highly recommend it!
Mr Salary by Sally Rooney
3.0
This is my introduction to Sally Rooney writing, and it had left me wanting more! Though short, the book explored themes like one-sided love and power dynamics. I can't say much because of how brief it was, but if this is something I will read in her other books, then I am excited to dive into her works.
My Death by Lisa Tuttle
3.0
The beginning started too slow for my liking, but the latter half made up for it. The length is just perfect though for its story; a nice quick read. I will reread this again and make a full review in the future 🫡
Valentino and Sagittarius by Natalia Ginzburg
4.0
Natalia Ginzburg showcases an insightful psychological dive into human relationships, particularly in familial relationships. Her writing reminds me of Stefan Zweig, so it is no surprise I found it enticing to read. What I loved most about the stories were their simple, but nuanced layers of meaning. Both novellas paint a complex portrayal of class dynamics, showcasing the complexity of it when it comes to societal expectations and personal desires. The novella also explores the role of daughters and the responsibility they have toward their family just for simply being a daughter. From my perspective, two stories are being told in each novella. One, from the main story itself, and two, from the invisible like narrators- the daughters. These narrators may be overlooked, but they hold a very important message in the story. Lastly, I couldn't feel anything but sad towards the end. It's a pity how we are discouraged from wanting more in life because of societal expectations. Thus, it is no surprise when people fall in feeling helpless instead. The stories are filled with complexities and written in subtle ways. As I finish the book, I am left with conflicting emotions.
The Husbands by Holly Gramazio
2.0
I think the book's pacing somewhat captures the dating scene reality- exhausting and repetitive when you can't find the "right one" especially as you grow older. The attic is just like a dating app in real life LOL It was a fun and light book, but it's quite enjoyable. However, I wish the plot had developed more. The concept is great, but the execution fell flat. I wish the author included an explanation of the whole situation. This book was good, but I wasn't too into it. I think that it raises good discussion points though which I might delve into more soon.
A Nervous Breakdown by Anton Chekhov
3.0
Intriguing stories. I wish there were more to it though.
The stories explore hysterical obsessions, mental turmoil, and societal expectations in such a wonderful way that I wish there were more to it. The first story, "A Nervous Breakdown," highlights the battle between societal morality and own desires, which can drive individuals to the weight of guilt and shame, leading to psychological turmoil. "The Black Monk" explores the impact of delusion, and unchecked desires, both of which can lead to destruction. Lastly, "Anna Round the Neck" showcases societal expectations and how damaging they can be. Most often than not, people- especially women- sacrifice something, such as happiness, because of the pressure.
The stories explore hysterical obsessions, mental turmoil, and societal expectations in such a wonderful way that I wish there were more to it. The first story, "A Nervous Breakdown," highlights the battle between societal morality and own desires, which can drive individuals to the weight of guilt and shame, leading to psychological turmoil. "The Black Monk" explores the impact of delusion, and unchecked desires, both of which can lead to destruction. Lastly, "Anna Round the Neck" showcases societal expectations and how damaging they can be. Most often than not, people- especially women- sacrifice something, such as happiness, because of the pressure.
The Suffragettes by Various
4.0
“Once they are aroused, once they are determined, nothing on earth and nothing in heaven will make women give way; it is impossible.”
quick and informative read.
quick and informative read.
Salt Slow by Julia Armfield
2.0
I read this slowly— in between my work and my spare time. I thought it would allow me to take in the themes of each story, but I honestly forget about them afterwards. Maybe it’s not the story— maybe, I’m just reading this at a wrong time. I loved some stories though like granite, mantis, and the collectables, but overall, it just didn’t do it for me.